Definition

A type of entertainment where people can watch short films or images, often of an adult nature, through a small opening or in a small booth.

Example

They went to the arcade and watched a peepshow in one of the booths.

Conversation

Have you ever been to a peepshow?

No, I haven't, but I've heard some interesting stories about them.

They can be pretty quirky, like a mix of art and entertainment.

Sounds fun! I might check one out just for the experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peepshow is formed from "peep" (from Middle English *pepen*, meaning to look quickly or secretly) and "show" (from Old English *sceawian*, meaning to look at or display). The word describes a display that one looks at secretly or quickly, often used in the context of a voyeuristic viewing experience.

Memory Tip

Think of 'peeping' as looking quickly and 'showing' as displaying something — a peepshow is a quick look at a display.

Visually Confused Words